QUESTION: 

My nipples turn inside; they don’t hurt.  My mom’s do the same.  Is this healthy?

ANSWER:

Inverted or invaginated nipples occur in about 10% of the population of women according to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office on Women’s Health, and they are healthy.  Most women’s nipples protrude or stick-out and become longer and wider during sexual arousal.  Sometimes the inverted nipples also protrude or become erect during sexual intercourse or when a baby is suckling. One or both nipples may be invaginated.  This is not unusual or strange.  To have inverted nipples makes you unique.  Celebrate it.  It is just the way you were created.  There are no perfect breasts.  Breasts and nipples vary as much as people’s faces.  According to the Scarleteen website, “The way your body is, is part of who you are, and what makes you special”. Accept and love your body.  There is nothing to be embarrassed or ashamed about.  If you love your body, others will love you as well, just the way you are.

However, a nipple that suddenly becomes inverted can be a sign of cancer underneath. In this case, you must see a doctor immediately.

Daily stroking the nipple with warm hands may stimulate the nipple to protrude.  And frequent stimulation such as intercourse and foreplay (such as nipple sucking) helps the nipple to protrude.

So, there’s nothing wrong with you.  You’re unique and healthy too.

~Dr. Lynda R. Lewis

Additional info from the Editor, but you should ALWAYS consult your doctor if you have additional questions: